Nestled in the heart of the Warwickshire countryside, just a short drive from Stratford-upon-Avon, lies one of the Midlands’ most remarkable cultural treasures.
Surrounded by more than 120 acres of landscaped parkland, lakes and rolling countryside, Compton Verney offers something rather special, a place where world-class art and the beauty of the natural landscape come together in perfect harmony.
For many people, Compton Verney remains one of the region’s best-kept secrets. Yet this award-winning gallery and visitor destination boasts an extraordinary collection of art, a packed calendar of exhibitions and events, family activities, workshops and outdoor experiences that make it an ideal day out for visitors of all ages.
Whether you are an art enthusiast, a history lover, a keen walker or simply looking for somewhere different to explore this summer, Compton Verney deserves a place on your list.
Six Collections Under One Roof
Unlike many galleries that focus on a single period or style, Compton Verney is home to six permanent collections spanning centuries and continents.
Visitors can discover British Folk Art, the renowned Napoleonic Collection, Chinese bronzes, exquisite European art, striking Northern European works and the fascinating Marx-Lambert Collection, each offering a unique window into different cultures and periods of history.
The galleries are housed within a magnificent Grade I listed mansion, beautifully restored and set within grounds originally designed by the legendary landscape architect Capability Brown.
Dutch Masters on Display
One of the standout exhibitions currently drawing visitors from across the country is Bruegel to Rembrandt: Drawing Life, Sketching Wonder, which runs until 28 June.
Featuring more than 60 works from the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium, many never previously seen in Britain, the exhibition showcases some of the greatest names of the Dutch and Flemish Golden Age.
Visitors can see works by Pieter Bruegel the Elder, Rembrandt, Peter Paul Rubens and Jacob Jordaens, alongside loans from prestigious institutions including the National Gallery, Royal Collection Trust, Ashmolean Museum, Dulwich Picture Gallery and Sir John Soane’s Museum.
The exhibition reveals how artists used charcoal, chalk and ink not only to record the world around them but also to tell stories, explore ideas and capture the dramatic social and religious changes sweeping Europe during the 16th and 17th centuries.
Among the highlights is Bruegel’s rare Prudence, part of his celebrated Seven Virtues series.
Modern Masterpieces in Warwickshire
Visitors can also enjoy Modern Masterpieces: Paintings from the Barber Institute of Fine Arts, on display until September 2026.
This intimate exhibition brings together six exceptional paintings by some of the most influential artists of the modern era, including Vincent van Gogh, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Édouard Vuillard and Pierre Bonnard.
On loan from the Barber Institute of Fine Arts at the University of Birmingham during its redevelopment programme, these works offer a rare opportunity to experience masterpieces that would normally be viewed in Birmingham.
The paintings focus on everyday life, family gatherings, quiet moments of reflection and scenes of work, reminding us that great art often finds beauty in ordinary moments.
Visionary Artists and Extraordinary Stories
For those looking for something a little different, Troublemakers and Prophets: Elizabeth Allen and Other Visionary Artists runs until August 2026.
The exhibition explores the life and work of Elizabeth Allen, known as “Queen”, whose striking creations combine humour, prophecy and deeply personal storytelling.
Displayed alongside the work of more than 15 other visionary artists, the exhibition transforms everyday objects, textiles and found materials into imaginative and thought-provoking works of art.
It is an immersive and fascinating experience that highlights creativity in all its forms.
Sculpture Among the Trees
One of Compton Verney’s greatest attractions lies beyond the gallery walls.
The recently opened Sculpture in the Park experience invites visitors to wander through the estate discovering contemporary artworks placed throughout the landscape.
The collection features works by leading British and international artists, turning the grounds into an outdoor gallery where art, history and nature interact.
New for 2025 is Gilt by renowned British artist Hew Locke, a striking sculpture recently exhibited at New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art. Positioned prominently on the Compton Verney portico, it explores ideas of heritage, power and public memory.
Elsewhere visitors can encounter works by Sarah Lucas, Permindar Kaur, Larry Achiampong, Nicolas Deshayes, Augustas Serapinas and Brazilian artist Erika Verzutti, whose specially commissioned work responds directly to the landscape.
Perhaps the most eye-catching piece is John Frankland’s Untitled Boulder, a colossal 75-tonne rock that appears entirely natural until you realise it has been deliberately positioned as a work of art.
More Than Just Art
What makes Compton Verney so appealing is that it offers far more than galleries alone.
Throughout the year there are family trails, workshops, talks, outdoor activities, creative sessions and special one-off events.
The estate’s lakeside setting provides beautiful walking opportunities, while the café offers visitors the chance to relax and take in the surroundings.
Families often find that children who may not normally be interested in art quickly become engaged by the combination of open space, sculpture trails and hands-on activities.
Potfest by the Lake
Visitors planning a trip between 19 and 21 June should be aware that Potfest by the Lake will be taking place during those dates.
The popular event brings together talented ceramic artists and makers from across the country, creating a vibrant celebration of contemporary pottery and craftsmanship. During the event, all visitors, including members, will require a Potfest ticket to access Compton Verney.
A Midlands Gem Worth Discovering
In an age when many people travel long distances to experience world-class culture, it is easy to overlook what is available on our own doorstep.
Compton Verney combines internationally significant art collections, major exhibitions, contemporary sculpture, beautiful historic architecture and stunning Warwickshire countryside in a way few destinations can match.
It is a place where visitors can admire a Van Gogh, explore a Capability Brown landscape, discover a contemporary sculpture among the trees and enjoy a peaceful lakeside walk, all in the same afternoon.
As its latest campaign puts it, this truly is where great art meets the great outdoors, and one of the finest cultural destinations the Midlands has to offer.
Find out more at: www.comptonverney.org.uk
